This innings not only added another feather to Tendulkar's illustrious cap but also reinforced his status as one of the greatest batters of all time
On this day, July 26, 2010, cricket fans around the world witnessed one of the most remarkable innings by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Playing at the SSC Ground in Colombo, Tendulkar scored a brilliant 203 runs against Sri Lanka, marking his 48th Test century and his fifth double hundred. This innings not only showcased Tendulkar's incredible skill but also highlighted his unyielding determination and ability to lead India to a position of strength.
India started the day on the back foot, chasing Sri Lanka's mammoth first-inning total. Tendulkar, resuming his innings, was relentless, displaying a range of exquisite strokes that left the Sri Lankan bowlers struggling for answers. His innings were laced with 23 boundaries and one towering six, underscoring his dominance at the crease.
Tendulkar's innings were built on crucial partnerships that provided India with a solid foundation. He put together a 68-run stand with VVS Laxman for the fourth wicket, followed by a record-breaking 256-run partnership with debutant Suresh Raina for the fifth wicket. Raina, making his Test debut, played a brilliant supporting role, scoring an impressive 120 runs.
Tendulkar also shared a 95-run partnership with captain MS Dhoni, who played an aggressive knock, contributing 76 runs. These partnerships were vital in ensuring that India not only avoided the follow-on but also surpassed Sri Lanka's first-inning total.
Sachin Tendulkar and Suresh Raina share a moment after their monumental 256-run partnership against Sri Lanka // m.rediff.com
The day began with Tendulkar and Raina at the crease. Both batters looked confident and took on the Sri Lankan bowlers with ease. Tendulkar reached his 150 with a boundary, equaling Brian Lara's record of 19 scores of 150-plus in Test cricket. Raina, on the other hand, continued his impressive debut, reaching his century with a boundary off Dammika Prasad.
In the post-lunch session, India consolidated their position, with Tendulkar and Dhoni leading the charge. Raina fell for 120, caught by Kumar Sangakkara off Ajantha Mendis. Tendulkar, however, continued his onslaught, reaching his double century with a couple off Mendis just before tea.
Suresh Raina celebrating his century on his test debut // Picture Courtesy – The Express Tribune
The final session of the day saw Tendulkar being dismissed shortly after reaching his double century. He was caught by Prasanna Jayawardene off Tillakaratne Dilshan. Harbhajan Singh and Dhoni followed suit, but Abhimanyu Mithun's valiant 41 helped India take a slender lead. When the stumps were drawn, India had amassed 707 runs, leading by 65.
This innings was a testament to Tendulkar's greatness. His ability to play long innings and anchor the team's batting order was once again on display. This double century also highlighted his consistency and determination to perform on the big stage.
Sachin Tendulkar plays an elegant cover drive during his innings of 203 against Sri Lanka in Colombo // Picture Courtesy – ESPNcricinfo
Despite India's commanding position, the match eventually ended in a draw. Sri Lanka declared their second inning at 129 for three, with Kumar Sangakkara and Tharanga Paranavitana contributing valuable runs. However, the Test match was significant for India, as it showcased their batting depth and resilience.
Sachin Tendulkar's double century against Sri Lanka on this day, remains one of the most memorable innings in cricket history. His masterful knock, combined with the support from Raina and Dhoni, helped India post their highest total in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka 642 for 4 December (Sangakkara 219, Jayawardene 174, Paranavitana 100) and 129 for 3 December (Sangakkara 42*, Paranavitana 34) drew with India 707 (Tendulkar 203, Raina 120, Mendis 4-172).
